It is grueling enough training for a triathlon, so why make it even more exhausting by over-complicating your life when shopping for your gear? Some Triathlon Shops will try and sell you everything on their racks for each event, but your real focus should not be on how much stuff you own, but the quality of what you just bought and how it may assist your journey to the finish line.
If it is your first event, keep it simple. Consider a wetsuit rental rather than a purchase. If you discover you are hooked on the adrenaline rush, you can always purchase a wetsuit before the next event. You can also choose to wear a swimsuit instead during the event if the temperature of the water makes this a sensible choice.
Bring basic gear including a bike helmet, goggles and a towel. Forgetting these simple items could be what may cost you the race, or in the case of the helmet, prohibit you from even being able to race. If you are purchasing running shoes, this is the event that you should use as your reason to splurge on the best quality possible. However, do not save these shoes for the competition, be certain to try them out a few times so you know they live up to their reputation.
Remember to avoid cotton clothing for all of your running gear. It will not stay dry or remove moisture from your body. Choose synthetic materials for everything even your socks, if you are planning on wearing socks. Other items to purchase and bring include a water bottle, sunglasses and a kit bag to mount on your bicycle for any emergency repairs.
If you decide to continue competing you will have an enormous amount of other items to consider purchasing. Triathlon Shops typically offer everything necessary to help you begin shaving seconds off your time as well as all of the things you will need to help you recover following the race. If you are interested in picking up some, or all of this gear, check out Urban Tri Gear LLC to see what type of items are available.